Supporting the Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences in the Clinical Setting

Bart Klika, PhD, MSW & Jennifer Jones, MSW

Citation

Klika, J.B., Jones, J. (2023). Supporting the Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences in the Clinical Setting. J Health Serv Psychol 49(3), 113–119. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42843-023-00088-7

Abstract

The multitude of problems presented by clients in clinical practice can pose challenges for identifying opportunities for primary prevention of trauma and abuse. However, psychologists have a critical role in the prevention of abuse, neglect, and other adverse childhood experiences. Viewing a client and their presenting challenges as an extension of systemic and environmental problems allows for the individual psychologist to practice prevention in clinical practice. In the assessment and treatment planning process, it is critical for psychologists to assess for ongoing client safety, leverage clients’ strengths, help clients navigate to concrete and economic supports to meet basic needs, and to address current and past trauma and mental health challenges.

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